What Is Lap Siding?

A Quick Guide To Lap Siding For Your Home

You may not have ever heard the term “lap siding” before, but you have certainly seen it all over homes and buildings in your neighborhood. Lap siding is the most common and practical siding material that is the go-to material for many homebuilders and homeowners. Come learn the basics of lap siding and what it can do for your next renovation project!

Understanding Lap Siding

Lap siding refers to a type of exterior siding material and process where long boards are installed horizontally on a building, overlapping each other. The term “lap” derives from the overlapping design, which serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. This overlapping arrangement creates a visually appealing, layered look and provides added protection against the elements. The slanted design allows water to run off the surface, minimizing the risk of water infiltration and damage to the underlying structure.

Lap siding can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, fiber cement, vinyl, and engineered wood. Its versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for homeowners who want to enhance the curb appeal of their property while ensuring long-lasting performance. 

Types Of Lap Siding

Lap siding comes in several variations, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. Understanding the different types can help you make an informed decision when selecting the right option for your home or building project. Here are the most common types of lap siding:

• Beaded Lap Siding: Beaded lap siding is distinguished by a small, rounded bead along the bottom edge of each board. 

• Traditional Lap Siding: Traditional lap siding, also known as clapboard siding, features flat or slightly curved boards that overlap each other. 

• Dutch Lap Siding: Dutch lap siding is characterized by a concave curve at the top of each board, which creates a shadowed groove when installed. 

• Shiplap Siding: Shiplap siding is another variation of lap siding that features boards with interlocking edges. These edges fit tightly together, creating a seamless and uniform appearance. Shiplap is often used for both interior and exterior applications.

• Log Lap Siding: For those who love the rustic charm of log cabins, log lap siding offers the perfect solution. This style mimics the appearance of rounded logs but is easier to install and maintain. Log lap siding is typically made from wood or engineered wood.

Best Uses For Lap Siding

One of lap siding’s primary uses is residential construction, where it’s favored for its ability to withstand weather conditions while maintaining its appearance over time. Homeowners often choose lap siding to add character and charm to their homes, as it comes in various textures, colors, and finishes that can be customized to match personal preferences. Lap siding is also a great choice for commercial properties, especially those that aim to achieve a welcoming and approachable look.

It’s particularly effective in areas that experience heavy rainfall, as its overlapping design provides excellent water resistance. This makes it a popular option in regions with harsh weather conditions, including strong winds, snow, and heavy storms. Lap siding is often chosen for historical renovations because of its ability to replicate traditional aesthetics while offering modern durability to preserve the integrity of the structure. 

Materials Used In Lap Siding

Lap siding can be crafted from a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits and drawbacks. Though lap siding sold by any reputable company is likely a good option for reliable siding, it is still important to know the differences between the materials used to determine which is best for your project. Below, we explore the most common materials used for lap siding:

• Wood: Wood lap siding is the traditional choice and offers unmatched natural beauty and warmth. It’s available in a wide range of species, such as cedar, pine, and redwood. However, wood requires regular maintenance to prevent issues like rot, warping, and insect damage.

• Vinyl: Vinyl lap siding is a low-maintenance and cost-effective option. It’s available in various colors and styles, including those that mimic the appearance of wood. Though vinyl is durable and resistant to moisture, it may crack or fade over time in extreme weather conditions.

• Fiber Cement: Fiber cement lap siding is a durable and versatile choice made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It’s resistant to fire, pests, and weather damage, making it an excellent long-term investment. Fiber cement can also be painted or finished to mimic wood or other materials.

• Engineered Wood: Engineered wood siding is made from wood fibers and resins, offering the look of natural wood with added durability and resistance to moisture. It’s a cost-effective alternative to traditional wood siding and requires less maintenance.

• Metal: Although less common, metal lap siding is an option for modern or industrial designs. It’s highly durable, fire-resistant, and low-maintenance but may be prone to dents and scratches.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Lap Siding

Lap siding is a convenient, go-to option for many construction projects, but it is still important to consider all the factors before choosing a particular siding material. Before selecting lap siding for your home, keep the following factors in mind to ensure you make the best choice for your needs and preferences:

• Climate: Consider your local weather conditions when choosing a siding material. For example, fiber cement and engineered wood are excellent for regions with extreme temperatures or high humidity.

• Maintenance Requirements: Different materials require varying levels of maintenance. Wood siding, for instance, needs regular painting and sealing, but vinyl and fiber cement are more low-maintenance.

• Budget: Your budget will play a significant role in determining the type of lap siding you can afford. Vinyl is typically the most budget-friendly option, while fiber cement and engineered wood may cost more upfront but offer better longevity.

• Aesthetic Preferences: Think about the overall look you want to achieve. Beaded and Dutch lap siding add more detail and texture, but traditional lap siding provides a classic, understated appearance.

• Installation: Some types of lap siding are easier to install than others. If you’re planning a DIY project, vinyl or engineered wood may be more suitable, whereas fiber cement and wood often require professional installation.

RigidStack™ Lap Siding For Salt Lake City, UT

Integrated Roofing Solutions is proud to install RigidStack™ lap siding from Diamond Kote®. This lap siding features a realistic wood grain and is extremely durable and highly resistant to warping, cracking, rot, insects, and more. As the name suggests, this siding material is stacked and bonded together to be up to 375% stronger than the average lap siding board. Best of all, it comes with a 30-year no-fade warranty to give you peace of mind about your investment.

For more information on RigidStack™ lap siding for your project in the Salt Lake area, call Integrated Roofing Solutions today!